Wetherspoons will reduce the price of children's meals from Thursday, June 25, as part of a government initiative to help families save money this summer. The pub chain is among several major businesses committing to pass on the temporary VAT cut from 20% to 5% on eligible items.
Government's Great British Summer Savings Tax Cut
The government's Great British Summer Savings tax cut came into effect on June 25 and will run until September 1 inclusive. It applies across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland to a range of activities, including children's meals in restaurants and cafes, as well as tickets for theme parks, cinemas, theatres, and soft play areas.
The temporary scheme aims to help families enjoy weekend treats and day trips at more affordable prices, easing the impact of the cost of living crisis linked to the Iran war. The reduced VAT rate will be applied to children's menu meals served in restaurants for consumption on the premises, children's and family tickets for entertainment venues, and admission tickets to attractions such as amusement parks, museums, zoos, and nature reserves.
Businesses Passing on Savings
Wetherspoons is joined by McDonald's, KFC, Burger King, and Shepherd Neame pubs in committing to pass on the savings to customers, according to HM Treasury. This allows pub-goers to enjoy cheaper meals over the summer months.
In addition, the scheme includes free bus travel for children aged five to 15 in England during the school holidays in August, making it easier and more affordable for families to get out and about.
Chancellor's Statement
Chancellor Rachel Reeves said: “I know the cost of living is a number one concern for families, and it can be even harder over the summer holidays when kids want to do things and money is tight. So we’re making it that bit easier for families to make memories together and enjoy the little treats - while giving a boost to businesses across the UK.”
She added: “This comes on top of support we’ve already put in place including freezing fuel duty, taking off £117 off energy bills, and freezing prescriptions and rail fares. We are able to do this because we have the right economic plan, resulting in the UK having the fastest growing economy in the G7.”
Eligible Items and Future Offers
The government confirmed that prices will be slashed between now and September 1 on children's menu meals, children's and family tickets for cinemas, theatres, concerts, shows, and exhibitions, as well as admission tickets to amusement parks, fairs, museums, zoos, soft play centres, circuses, adventure parks, nature reserves, wildlife parks, and observation attractions.
HM Treasury added that it will soon launch a Great British Savings deal finder to help families discover summer offers from businesses in their area online.
